Clerical Officer Interview

A clerical officer has a wide variety of tasks to undertake on a daily basis. They may supervise junior clerical staff in their work, and may actually teach them to do some aspects of their job. A clerical officer will find that their job expands with time and the longer that they remain in the position. Virtually every company will need some clerical assistance, so for those people who enjoy doing a doing many different jobs every day.

There aren’t any formal qualifications for a clerical officer, although GCSEs, grades A-C in four or five subjects including English and Maths are usually requested by an employer. The main duties can include typing of documents, organising meetings and ensuring that everyone invited receives an agenda. There may be some photocopying, data entry together with filing of paper documents.

It is difficult to say exactly what a clerical officer will do as it depends on the type of company and the number of staff however a good clerical officer will be prepared to jump in to assist whenever it is necessary.

Look at the company website and check out the “About us” page as it should give some background information. It may often state how the business is growing and their next expansion plans.

The night before the interview decide which clothes you will be wearing so that you won’t panic in the morning. Always wear smart clothes when you attend an interview. Ensure you prepare any documentation requested by the company. These may include certificates or references from previous employers. Print copies so that they can be left with the interviewer.

Allow plenty of time for the journey so that you arrive at the company some fifteen minutes before the time of the appointment. Switch your mobile phone off as it isn’t professional for it to ring during the interview.

When meeting the interviewer shake hands firmly – a limp handshake is unacceptable. Smile at the interviewer and use their name occasionally. Make sure that you look at the interviewer throughout the interview. When asked a question speak clearly and answer fully without wandering off the topic.

At the end of the interview thank the interviewer and indicate that you really want the job if it is offered to you.